Contract Lawyer in Westchester County, NY
Contract Law in New York
New York contract law is primarily governed by the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for sales of goods and common law for services and other agreements. The statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years from the date of breach (CPLR § 213). New York courts generally award compensatory damages to put the non-breaching party in the position they would have been in had the contract been performed.
Last verified: March 2026 | Westchester County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of New York’s civil procedure laws, review the New York State Legislature website (official New York statutes). For court forms and local rules, visit the Westchester County Supreme Court website (official New York courts).
Westchester County Contract Dispute Process
Contract cases in Westchester County are filed in one of three courts based on the amount in controversy. Small Claims Court handles matters up to $10,000 with simplified procedures. Civil Court handles claims up to $50,000. The Westchester County Supreme Court has unlimited jurisdiction for major commercial disputes.
- File a summons and complaint: File your summons and complaint with the Westchester County Supreme Court clerk, paying the $210 index number fee to initiate the lawsuit.
- Serve the defendant: Serve the defendant with the filed papers within 120 days as required by New York CPLR rules, using a process server or other authorized method.
- Complete discovery: Exchange documents, answer interrogatories, and conduct depositions under the full CPLR discovery rules, which are mandatory in Supreme Court cases.
- Attend court conferences: Attend preliminary and compliance conferences with the judge to set a discovery schedule and discuss potential settlement.
- Proceed to trial or settlement: Either reach a settlement agreement or proceed to a bench or jury trial before a Westchester County Supreme Court justice.
Contract Dispute Penalties and Consequences
In Westchester County, a breach of contract can result in compensatory and consequential damages, with attorney fees recoverable only if contractually provided.
| Remedy | Legal Basis | Financial Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | NY Common Law / UCC | Value of promised performance | Puts non-breaching party in position if contract performed |
| Consequential Damages | NY Common Law / UCC § 2-715 | Foreseeable losses from breach | Must be proven as foreseeable at contract formation |
| Attorney Fees | Contract provision or specific statute | Varies by case | Not awarded under American Rule without agreement |
| Specific Performance | Equitable remedy | Court orders performance | Available when damages are inadequate (e.g., unique goods) |
Results may vary. The outcome of any contract dispute depends on the specific facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Our Contract Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to contract dispute resolution. Mr. Sris has personally handled complex business litigation matters and understands the procedural nuances of New York courts. Our approach focuses on practical solutions, whether through negotiation, mediation, or aggressive litigation when necessary.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington DC. While we maintain a high success rate in contract and business disputes, each case depends on its unique facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Contract Lawyer Near Westchester County
Our New York location serves clients at Westchester County courts, accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway), I-84, I-287, Taconic State Parkway, and Route 9. We represent clients throughout Westchester County including White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Scarsdale, Bronxville, Rye, Ossining, Peekskill, Tarrytown, Mamaroneck, Port Chester, Dobbs Ferry, Larchmont, and Hastings-on-Hudson.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for a breach of contract in New York?
Six years. New York’s statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years from the date of breach under CPLR § 213.
Can I recover attorney fees in a New York contract lawsuit?
Only if your contract specifically provides for them. New York follows the ‘American Rule,’ meaning each party pays its own fees unless a statute or the contract itself states otherwise.
What courts handle contract disputes in Westchester County?
Three courts: Small Claims (up to $10,000), Civil Court (up to $50,000), and Supreme Court (unlimited). The Westchester County Supreme Court handles most major commercial disputes.
What are the typical damages for breach of contract in NY?
Compensatory damages to put you in the position you would have been in had the contract been performed. Consequential damages may apply if foreseeable. Punitive damages are rarely awarded.
How long does a contract case take in Westchester County Supreme Court?
Typically 18 to 36 months. Timeline depends on case complexity, court scheduling, and whether the case proceeds through mandatory arbitration or full discovery under the CPLR.
Related Legal Services
For more information about our legal services, visit our New York contract lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Albany County and Broome County. In Westchester County, we handle related matters such as business law and civil litigation. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your contract dispute.